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THE HARP OF LIFE 



THE 

HARP of LIFE 

by 
NETTIE P. ALLEMONG 



^^And love took up the harp of life 
and smote on all the strings.' ' 
LocKSLEY Hall. 




1922 

THE STRATFORD CO., Publishers 
Boston, Massachusetts 






V^"^c^^ 



Copyright, 1922 

The STRATFORD CO., Publishers 

Boston, Mass. 



The Alpine Press, Boston, Mass., U. S. A. 



JUL 10 1922 



The f^emory of that Love which taught 
My Heart to Sing 



CONTENTS 

/ Page 

Salutation 1 

Eventide 2 

To a Released Bird 4 

Take Me Home to Old Virginia ... 6 
To the Hierarchy in the Bush . . .10 

Swinging on the Gate 11 

The Snow Fall 14 

When a Fellow Needs a Friend . . . 17 

Our Ready Ally 20 

Too Late 22 

The Tryst 24 

My Rival 25 

Virginia 27 

The Friend of Friends . . . .29 

A Picture of Evelyn 32 

Writer's Cramp 33 

Riches 34 

Pumpkin Pies 37 

I Know a Little Avenue . . . .39 

Sympathy 41 



CONTENTS 

Page 

A Man Like You 42 

My Mother 44 

Easter Revelations 45 

Because 51 

Hollywood 52 

Those Kids of Mine 55 

Country Folk 58 

Supper Time at Home 61 

Woman's Smile . . . . . .63 

Honni Soit Qui Maly Pense . . . .65 

Tide of the Years . . , . .68 

Bereavement 70 

Christmas Eve at Home . . . .73 
When Daddy Had to Cook . . . .80 
There is a Life That Has No Death . . 85 

Learn to Laugh 87 

When the Table is Set For Two . . .89 

To a Musician 91 

When the Autumn Days Are Here . . 95 

Love 100 

To Courtney . . . . . .104 

The Empty Cradle 105 

My Reward 106 

Sunset 107 

The Peaks of Otter 109 

The Unseen 113 



Salutation 

A bard unknown to fame salutes you here, 
Presents these simple rhymes with trembling 

fear, 
Like songs of birds, they claim no lyric art ; 
But as the Muse impelled, flowed from the 

heart. 
Here love full oft has struck life's throbbing 

lyre; 
In swelling strains essayed its high desire. 
Grief too has voiced its ever mournful note, 
In plaintive song which welled the singers 

throat. 
Mirth's airy mood as well has told its Jest 
In careless strain, which suits its tenor best. 
Thro all these varied themes of poesy, 
Some heart may throb with mine in sympathy, 
In dreams may fare with me the sunset ways 
To hallowed scenes of life 's bright yesterdays. 
Repaid am I if here I've made one constant 

friend, 
Whose path some song may cheer unto the end. 
Tho critic minds condemn the work unfit to 

live. 
They can at least, in charity, FORGIVE. 

[I] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



Eventide 

Eventide, an empty nest, a robin's plaintive 

call, 
Unheeding sit two little birds beside my garden 

wall. 
With pleading notes the mother calls the brood 

unto her breast. 
Two little birds the world have seen, forgot the 

parent nest. 
With eyes that see love's finished task as fall 

the shadows gray 
Westward on unresting wing, the robin flies 

away. 

Eventide, an empty home, a mother old and 

gray, 
To distant scenes the world has called her 

group of ^Ye away. 
As twilight falls, in dreams she sings to babes 

upon her breast. 
And o'er the cradle bends again with prayer 

for peaceful rest, 

[2] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

As empty home and vacant crib melt in the 

shadows gray 
Where shine the hills and faces smile, the 

mother flies away. 



[3] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



To a Released Bird 

My beautiful captive, I set you free 

To make your home in the forest tree. 

No more shall your cries for life be heard, 

My cage-prisoned suffering striving bird ; 

You shall sweep the vaults of the azure blue 

As an All wise God intended you to. 

When your mates invite from the branches high, 

You will answer back with a Joyous cry. 

Free to choose irom the birds that rove 

The forest halls a mate you will love ; 

Free to anchor a new-home nest 

Where birdlings will cheer the brooding breast. 

Like a silken sail by the breeze upborne, 
You shall fly aloft on the wings of morn. 
From a new found home, you will wander forth 
To the wooded cliffs of the wind-swept North. 
You shall lave your breast in the silvery foam, 
And sing on the heights of the cliff -built home. 
You will hear God's voice in the thunder loud, 
And read His smile on the sun-lit cloud. 
On the wings of Joy you will cheerily go 

[4] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

From the mountain heights to the vales below 
To gather food where the fancy calls 
In the mossy dells, by the waterfalls. 

You will dive and sing with your mates at play 
As children sport with the ocean's spray. 
Your beautiful notes so clear and free, 
Will rise o'er the forest harmony. 
The listening ear of the passing throng 
Will thrill with Joy at your raptured song, 
And when at eve to your nest you turn, 
While the Western skies yet faintly burn 
As you rest secure in the sheltering tree 
I will think how much you have been to me. 
And dream of a day that will have no night 
When I'll see you again in scenes of light. 



[5] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



Take Me Home to Old Virginia 

Take me home to old Virginia, to the roof of 

kindred ties, 
Where my heart in dreams is living in the light 

of loving eyes, 
Take me back to old surroundings, sacred 

scenes of other days, 
Where these feet in youth have wandered over 

sun-enchanted ways. 

Let me feel the morning breezes blown from 
musky clover dales, 

See the waving harvests spreading over peace- 
ful, smiling vales. 

Let me taste the ripened fruitage of its 
orchards and its vines. 

Rest again beneath the arbor where the trumpet 
creeper twines. 

Let me see the Alleghany with its glory-misted 

heights. 
Reaching starward in its grandeur on the silver 

summer nights, 

[6] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Let me hear the mellow music of the dancing 

mountain rills, 
Leaping down from heights of silence, through 

the shadow-cloistered hills. 

Let me gaze on loved Mt. Vernon, and historic 
Arlington. 

Sacred shrines of great Virginians, noble Lee 
and Washington. 

Let me look on Monticello where the slanting 
morning sun 

Gilds with gold the famous roof tree of immor- 
tal Jefferson. 

Let me linger near Manassas, on the sod where 
legends tell 

How the valiant Southern soldiers, nobly- 
fought and nobly fell 

Let me dream at Appomatox of the unforgotten 
day 

When the North and South forever laid the 
deadly sword away. 

Let me wander down by Piedmont thro the 
Rappahanock vales. 

Where the Tuckahoe is monarch of the daisy- 
dappled dales. 

[7] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Where the old Virginia darky sits beside his 

cabin door, 
Dreaming dreams of bygone glory, and the 

days that come no more. 

Let me see the stately mansions all along the 
rolling James, 

Where escutcheons bear forever many proud 
historic names, 

Let me trace old paths thro Richmond, Holly- 
wood, the Soldiers Home ; 

Rest my heart in reverent silence there beneath 
the State House dome. 

Virginians of Virginians, you are all the 

world to me! 
In my heart your proud position leaves no 

room for rivalry. 
Other states and other peoples claim my 

recreant thoughts apart ; 
You Virginia, and Virginians have my friends, 

my thoughts, my heart. 

Take me home to those who love me, to the roof 

of kindred ties ; 
Let me see the welcome smiling in the light of 

loving eyes. 

[8] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Let me share their dreams, their sorrows, daily 

happiness and toil, 
And in death, by them surrounded, rest in 

peace in sacred soil. 



[9] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



To the Hierarchy in the Bush 

How much do you know of the skylark's song, 
Who carols his soul's deep pleasure 

In rapturous notes which pour from his throat 
In fluent, melodious measure ? 

How much do you know of the mournful lay, 
He chirps o 'er a lone nest grieving, 

For the loved ones flown which were once his 
own, 
As the old home-bower he is leaving ? 

Who spreads to his view the beautiful blue, 

And earth for his admiration ; 
Has fashioned the note of his minstrel throat, 

Interprets the inspiration. 

However the song, if mournful or glad 

In lyrical measures, or broken ; 
The notes that could flow to you critics below 

He graciously leaves unspoken. 



[10] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Swinging on the Gate 
To Gladys 

You mothers whose dear children God took in 

early years, 
Whose Joys were your deep pleasures, whose 

sorrows caused your tears. 
Will understand the reason I let dull duties 

wait, 
To paint a mem'ry picture of a child upon a 

gate. 

'Twas at my garden entrance, one cloudless eve 

in June ; 
When roses wreathed the porchway in riotous 

festoon ; 
While yet a lark was singing a love song to his 

mate, 
A child watched for my coming, swinging on 

the gate. 

I thought to steal upon her, and catch her un- 
aware, 

To print a kiss blindfolded, upon her forehead 
fair. 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

When suddenly she spied me, and cried with 

heart elate, 
''I'm waiting for you Mamma, swinging on the 

gate!" 

Her Joyous tone of greeting, the gladness in 

her eyes 
Broke on my heart as sunlight transforms the 

eastern skies ; 
Her clinging handclasp told me why love and 

life were sweet, 
As through the door she led me, on lightsome, 

dancing feet. 

New values seemed to greet me in home's 

familiar store ; 
The doll within the rocker, the toys upon the 

floor. 
And when the supper lamplight shone round 

her picture plate, 
She told again the story of watching at the 

gate. 

Ere summer flowers had faded, or nesting birds 

had flown ; 
My little one had vanished, and I was left 

alone. 

[12] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

And as in wondering silence and empty rooms 

I wait, 
I seem to hear her calling, when swings the 

garden gate. 

One evening, worn from sorrow, I fell asleep 

and dreamed 
That life and love continue, that what was 

death but seemed 
A viewless curtain parted, beyond which loved 

ones wait, 
To welcome home our coming thro Heaven's 

eternal gate. 

Content, I wait life's evening, when from my 

hands shall fall 
My work, perhaps unfinished, in answer to His 

call. 
For one will hail my coming where angel 

children wait, 
I 'm watching for you Mamma, at the open gate. 



[13] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



The Snow Fall 

The earth newly-manteled is wondrously still 
As flutter the flakes over valley and hill. 
Like some fairy curtains let down on the scene, 
Shuts out all the landscape and objects between. 
While down thro the branches, new-feathered 

with pearl, 
The snowflakes unceasingly, silently whirl. 

The paths and the highways have vanished 

from sight. 
The snowbirds for refuge have taken their 

flight. 
The trees in the orchard, like ghosts in a row. 
Stand hooded in raiment new-fashioned from 

snow. 
The grape-arbor shines with its lily-shaped 

flowers, 
'er latticed with garlands as Japanese bowers. 

The hawthorne resembles a stately young bride. 
With veil of illusion which falls at her side, 
The cypress in rival is coated in fleece, 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

With bonnet new-feathered with down of the 

geese. 
The garden resplendent in vestments of white, 
Presents to the vision a wonderful sight. 

Shut in from the storm that is raging without, 
Contented, we circle the bright hearth about. 
Where rich, roasting apples with cider o 'er-run, 
While pop fly the chestnuts to heighten the fun. 
Each face and each heart is with gladness 

aglow. 
As lamps thro the windows shine out on the 

snow. 

When night with its shadows has covered the 

earth. 
And beckoned to dreamland the group from the 

hearth ; 
The children close-folded in each downy bed. 
In visions are happy with snowshoe and sled, 
While silently down on the white scene below 
On homestead and barn falls the beautiful 

snow. 

Ere Dawn 's fairy fingers had opened our eyes, 
She spread for our vision a wondrous surprise, 

[15] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

The earth 's snowy bosom with gems was aglow, 
The house was of marble, new-sculptured from 
snow. 

The gateposts were pillars of ivory white, 
Each tree hung with Jewels, a glittering sight. 
The barn was a castle with turrets and towers, 
The hedge in the garden was laden with flowers. 
The well and the windlass with coral were 

hung. 
While fair o'er the woodshed an awning was 

flung. 
All spotless and white was the new scene below, 
Transformed in a night by the mystical snow. 

Thro highways new-broken, o'er hilltop and 

dells, 
O^er regions of stillness rang merry sleigh bells. 
The children were off for a skate by the mill. 
To harden a track for a coast down the hill. 
Then ho for the Storm King, for Winters gay 

show! 
Heighho for the Joys of the beautiful snow I 



[i6] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



When a Fellow Needs a Friend 

Not when skies are arched and sunny, 
And he's well supplied with money; 
When his hives are dripping honey 
Where the fruitful branches bend, 
Not when banks their cash will lend him, 
Social pets and peers attend him ; 
Not when law and press defend him, 
Does a fellow need a friend. 

But when storms of ill o 'ertake him, 
And temptations lurk to shake him ; 
When his one-time friends forsake him, 
And he's reached his tether's end. 
When by landlord he's ejected, 
And by creditors rejected. 
When by no one he's protected, 
Then is when he needs a friend. 

When his business comrades doubt him. 
Slyly sneer and talk about him, 
From their chosen circle rout him 
To a more despairing end, 

[17] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

When the world and press accuse him, 
And in covert ways abuse him, 
When his kinsman too misuse him. 
Does a fellow need a friend. 

When his house and lands are taken. 
And his confidence is shaken ; 
When by God he seems forsaken. 
Is the time to be his friend. 
Then he needs what you can lend him, 
Kindly speech to recommend him, 
With your heart and purse defend him. 
Till his broken life you mend. 

Though an outcast bruised, and battered, 
Years of savings wrecked and scattered. 
With his dreams and prospects shattered, 
Save misfortune to the end. 
You can better his condition, 
Stir his soul with new ambition. 
Help him gain his old position, 
If you try to be his friend. 

Help him meet a new to-morrow. 
Free from penury and sorrow ; 
Show to him that he can borrow 
From a man who has to lend. 

[i8] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Let your friendship flow to meet him, 
As your smile and handshake greet him, 
Prove no foe can e 'er defeat him. 
Who in you has found a friend. 



[19] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



Our Ready Ally 

The talk about the devil as the worst of human 
foes 

That his wicked schemes and cunning underlie 
most mortal woes, 

But IVe the frank impression, tho his friend- 
ship you disclaim ; 

You'll accept him for an ally if he helps you 
win the game. 

Should the adversary find you on some island 

in distress. 
And in briney leagues would sink you in your 

abject helplessness ; 
Should his Majesty confront you and present a 

two-edged sword, 
Would you spurn his saving weapon, and be 

shuffled overboard? 

Should disease and death come prowling round 

your home in wants-disguise 
And the tears of little children plead with you 

from hungry eyes ; 

[20] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

If by stealth you spared them famine with a 

loaf from Mammon's board, 
Would you thank this ready ally, or deceitful 

thank the Lord? 

"Were a scheming world around me with its 

threatening look and word, 
And from nether pits of sorrow, let my cries go 

up unheard ; 
Tho good people all may scorn him, and the 

churches put to rout, 
I'm no saint — I'll take the devil, if he's there 

to help me out. 



[21] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



Too Late! 

Too late when the loved have vanished 
To wish for the bygone days; 
Wherein we could scatter kindness, 
Or utter the words of praise. 
Too late when the rose is shattered, 
To gather its rich perfume ; 
Or Joy in the glowing beauty 
That smiled in its velvet bloom. 



Too late when the years are numbered 

And fortune has passed us by ; 

To wish for the wealth we 've squandered. 

As ruins about us lie, 

' ' Too late ' ' locked the shining portals 

Of bright opportunity. 

When shut from our sight forever, 

Was a golden reality. 



Too late! chimes in the distance, 
How often your sweet refrain 
Doth echo Regrets' sad message 
From lips that are white with pain ! 

[22] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

As up from the founts of sorrow 
The penitent teardrops start, 
There knells in your notes of pathos, 
The cry of a broken heart. 



[23] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



The Tryst 

When twilight shadows close the day, 
And veil these aching eyes, 

To keep its tryst my soul goes forth 
To love's pure paradise. 

Released, on Joyful wing it flies 
To find the hallowed place 

Where your sweet spirit eager waits 
To meet its soft embrace. 

As to its nest at eventide 

Returns the homing dove, 
So in your heart it nestles close 

And sings its song of love. 



[24] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



My Rival 

She holds him her captive, this charmer of men, 
Who beguiles with her caprice to woo him 

again. 
She weaves 'round his visions a spell of delight ; 
Coquets with his fancy far into the night. 

She goes to his office, and ere he's aware 
She saucily tempts him to banish his care. 
She bids him forget all that's purchased with 

gold, 
And yield to the Joys that shall never grow 

old. 

She is close by his side in the sweetness of dusk, 
To ravish his senses with exquisite musk ; 
To press on his lips tender kiss after kiss, 
And woo his affections to orbits of bliss. 

I see him caress her, and smile at her charms, 
Till drunk with her influence, he opens his 

arms; 
And tosses her from him, then stands with a 

stare 
To see she has vanished — a dream in the air. 

[25] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

But what am I telling, a story untrue 

Of him whom I worship, who worships me too? 

Why fancy has led me to regions afar; 

In truth — she's a fragrant Havana cigar. 



[a6] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



Virginia 

Proud mother-State, thy noble name 
Enkindles hearts with sacred flame. 
Is wreathed with ever-living fame, 
Virginia ! 

O'er empire's path, thy natal star 
Led Christian Pilgrims from afar. 
Offspring of sacrifice and war, 
Virginia. 

Thine is an ever-open gate 
To those of high or less estate, 
Where opportunities await, 
Virginia. 

Thy sons revere their native sod. 
Ancestral homes, ancestral blood, 
Have faith in men, and faith in God, 
Virginia. 

Thy mountains pierce the opal mist, 
Where shine majestic peaks sunkissed ; 
Beneath soft skies of amethyst, 
Virginia. 

[27] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

The wonders of thy caverned hills, 
Thy rock-ribbed Bridge and singing rills, 
Thy sacred shrines the spirit thrills, 
Virginia ! 

Thy vales are clothed with waving grain, 
Rich-fruited trees deck hill and plain, 
"Where songbirds carol in refrain, 
Virginia. 

Here twine the gorgeous trumpet flowers, 
'er columned porch and latticed bowers, 
Here rainbows shine thro summer showers, 
Virginia. 

Here dwells the flower of maidenhood. 
The noblest type of womanhood. 
True gentlemen of noble blood, 
Virginia. 

With charming grace are met in thee 
Unrivaled hospitality; 
Old fashioned true democracy, 
Virginia. 

First in the Union, first to be 
The Nation's guard of liberty, 
First in the hearts that worship thee, 
Virginia ! 
[28] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



The Friend of Friends - 

In all my travels to and fro 

Around this gladsome earth, 
I've found one pal in whom I trust, 

One friend of honest worth. 
However fortune frowns or smiles, 

Or rolls the daily tide ; 
This friend of friends, unselfish, true. 

Is constant to my side. 

His lineage and heraldry 

Are known the world around. 
To him the kings of finance make 

Obeisance most profound. 
He rules the trade of farthest climes, 

Inspires the halls of State, 
Directs the wheels of industry 

The marts, however great. 

Integrity is graven deep 

Upon his honest face. 
The countenance of presidents 

Has lent him lineal grace. 
Altho the sport of knaves and fools 

The prodigal and bum, 

[29] 



THE HARP OP LIFE 

He is an oracle of speech 
Altho his lips are dumb. 

He holds the key to treasured stores, 
The palaces of earth, 

There 's not a thing he can not buy- 
That has commercial worth. 

And yet, withal his wondrous power 
A residence he lacks ; 

A vagrant o 'er the earth he goes 
Nor pays a cent of tax. 

No matter where the feet may roam. 

He'll take the journey too; 
The least or greatest service known 

He 's there to do for you. 
He'll answer every human want, 

And succor every ill. 
Whate'er the debt, the loss, the claim. 

He's there to pay the bill. 

From dawn of life into the grave 

'Tis well his gifts to hold. 
"With him to aid, your plans and dreams 

Like flowers will unfold. 
And you, with all his blessings proved. 

Your fellow-men may bless ; 

[30] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Your sympathies find recompense, 
In daily helpfulness. 

Of all your friends and worldly goods, 

Take inventory now. 
To this one friend upon the list 

A balance you'll allow. 
Throughout the changing scenes of life, 

Come happiness, or ill, 
The friend to have, and hold is this, 

A hundred dollar bill. 



[31] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



A Picture of Evelyn 

This unskilled hand can ne'er define 
Her lineaments in fair outline ; 
On facile canvas deftly trace 
The beauty of my darling's face. 

The magic skill of artists brush 
Could not portray her (peeks' soft blush ; 
The sparkling light within her eyes, 
As lustrous as the noonday skies. 

Her merry smile has all the theme 
Of some inspired, enraptured dream. 
Her winsome voice, so soft and clear, 
As music falls upon my ear. 

Then let this willing hand forbear 
To paint the soul reflected there. 
Such vain attempt were but a part 
Of what I wear within my heart. 



[32] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



Writer's Cramp 

It isn't the grip on the author's pen 
Which causes the pain ; instead, 
It's the indigestible, gaseous stuff 
That rumbles around in his head. 



[33] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



Riches 

I've been taking inventory of the riches 1 
possess, 

And I find my stock of treasures totals millions, 
more or less. 

Though I have no costly Jewels, and no paint- 
ings rare and fine, 

Yet the wealth of earth and Heaven seem in 
measure to be mine. 

I've no splendid storied mansion overlooking 

sward and flowers, 
Neither have I seaside cottage where to spend 

vacation hours, 
Stocks and bonds to me are fables, such as 

bankers like to tell, 
Loans and discounts never charmed me with 

gold-alluring spell. 

Neither do I wait the anchor of some ship far 

out at sea 
Silken-sailed and home returning, as some 

precious argosy. 

[34] 



THE HARP OP LIFE 

Fame and power and high position in their 

train have passed me by, 
Yet without these gifts of fortune, rich as any 

king am I. 

Down a street where lindens cluster, stands a 
modest wayside cot; 

Blooming flowers within the garden lend en- 
chantment to the spot, 

Climbing roses wreathe their garlands festively 
about the door 

Where the sun thro lattice spaces sifts its gold 
upon the floor. 

From within, you'll catch the patter of im- 
patient little feet 

Romping, bright-eyed, joyous children, rushing 
out my kiss to greet. 

In a twinkle, I'm their captive, bound by 
tight encircling arms, 

Cares like magic flee the sunshine of their un- 
affected charms. 

Near the parlor window knitting, where the 

sunset lances fall 
Sits my saintly sweet-faced Mother in her 

widow's cap and shawl, 

[35] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

There's a kindness in her manner and a look 

within her eyes, 
Makes me think she 's near the threshold of her 

home beyond the skies. 

When the lamplight on the table throws its 

shadows on the floor, 
And appears my life-long Sweetheart in the 

rose wreathed outer door, 
In the old familiar greeting, and the tender soft 

caress 
I have glimpsed the vales of Eden from the 

heights of happiness. 

When the children all are nestled each within 
his snowy bed, 

And I hear my sweet-voiced Mother softly sing- 
ing overhead, 

With my lover's arm around me resting near 
the lamplight's gold 

I have all the Joy and riches that the human 
heart can hold. 



[36] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



Pumpkin Pies 

When the frost has touched the forests, 
Tinting leaves with gold and red ; 
And the hunter seeks the footsteps ^ 
Of the rabbits ' nimble tread. 
When the chestnut burrs are dropping 
In a shower before your eyes ; 
Then it is the ripened pumpkin 
Changes into pumpkin pies. 

Tho the pantry shelves are laden 
With their store of rich preserves, 
And you view the garnered bounty 
Which the wifely thrift deserves ; 
Hungry eyes will hail the harvest 
With a look of glad surprise, 
If upon the shelf most handy. 
Shines a row of pumpkin pies. 

Rimmed within their flaky crust shells 
Lies the golden, velvet sweet. 
Cream and sugar richly blending 
In this old remembered treat, 

[37] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

With a tinge of spice suggesting 
Ripened fruits of piquant tang 
Over this in snowy billows, 
Spreads the foamy, soft merangue. 

When the turkey flaunts his prestige 
On Thanksgiving holiday, 
And the salad and the dessert 
Set around in fine array, 
In a glass of Sherry lifted, 
Smiling Joy you can't disguise, 
You will toast the peerless merits 
Of delicious pumpkin pies. 



[38] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



I Know a Little Avenue 

I know a little Avenue 
That leads to many hearts. 
It lies along the sunny slopes, 
And thro ' romantic parts. 

This road is ever smooth and bright 
Wherein the weary feet 
May find the plain of perfect peace, 
And rest where life is sweet. 

'Tis fringed along with old time flowers, 
Heartsease, forget-me-not ; 
Its cooling shade is ever green. 
Delightful every spot. 

Here flows the spring of true content 
From out the hidden rock. 
Here storm clouds never dim the sky, 
Nor felt the tempest shock. 

The air is rife with fragrant bloom 
And gay with singing bird ; 
Here little children throng the way, 
And lover's song is heard, 

[39] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

And all who walk herein will find 
True friends and happiness ; 
This Avenue to many hearts 
Is known as Cheerfulness. 



[40] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



Sympathy 

I know the pain, the deep-plunged woe 
When death has dealt its crushing blow. 
The soul 's great cry of deep distress, 
The sudden void, the loneliness. 

I know the longing day by day 
For one bright smile to cheer the way ; 
The tender touch of one dear hand 
That moved the will at love's command. 

I know the hush that pains the ears, 
The hearts low call when night appears ; 
The yearning sigh for that sweet rest 
Which found its peace on one dear breast. 

I know the hunger memories bring 
To natures faint with famishing. 
The sickness that finds no relief 
In falling tears of poignant grief. 

May faith and trust with mighty power 
Sustain thee in bereavement's hour 
That when life's griefs are overpast 
He'll bring thee to thine own at last. 

[41] 



THE HARP OP LIFE 



A Man Like You 

I would nerve my strength for the bravest task, 

For the sake of a man like you. 
And conquering odds, the heart would ask 

That reward be given to you, 
For you were the star in cloud-hung skies, 
Which led me on to the envied prize; 
Steadfast light of my lifted eyes, 

Joy of my way were you ! 

I would give the years of my youth all told, 

All with my love for you. 
Years when the path seemed paved with gold, 

And the heart of the world beat true. 
For you have given your best to me, 
Worshipful love and loyalty, 
Nurtured my faith in constancy. 

King of a man are you ! 

But days of my youth, nor the trophies won 

Can buy what I ask for you. 
The years of a beautiful life are done, 

The glittering hills in view, 

[42] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

But here on the edge of the Borderland, 
As a kiss wafts down from your waving hand, 
As you pass from sight you must understand 
My love for a man like you. 



[43] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



My Mother 

God did not make her beautiful 

As some fair women are, 
Nor give her intellect the poise 

Nor brilliance of a star. 
Yet in her eyes He put a light, 
Far lovelier than stars at night. 

He did not place her in a sphere 
Where social magnates shine. 

Where wit and song sway lighter souls 
To music's rhythmic time, 

Yet in her voice was sympathy. 

And all love 's finer harmony. 

God gave my mother nobler gifts 

Than grace and loveliness, 
Endowed her with capacity 

So many lives to bless. 
She made a home what home should be, 
And left a stainless memory. 



[44] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



Elaster Revelations 

My sacrifices all are done, the Lenten season's 
past ; 

And I can don my stylish gowns, and new 
chapeaux at last, 

For weeks I've hurried to and fro with breath- 
less agitation, 

That Easter bonnet, gown and gloves may 
challenge admiration. 

The Paris modes, you see, Lissette, quite well 

become my beauty ; 
Tho I am pale you well agree from tireless 

Lenten duty, 
Yes, that's the hat with drooping plumes, and 

gauzy crown aspangle, 
You see, I wear it slightly tipped at this 

coquettish angle. 

My gloves, Lissette, and Prayer-book too, I'm 

late, tell John to hurry ; 
These forty days of sacrifice have put me in a 

flurry. 

[45] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Who passed us then in that new car, they bowed 

as tho acquainted, 
With all their speed, I well could see the 

woman's face was painted. 

These poor old jaded, faded dames; their tricks 

are most amusing. 
The dotted veils which hide the lines are rather 

to my choosing. 
Ah, here we are, the church is packed, and there 

is Mrs. Furman, 
Yes, usher, seat us near the front, we want to 

hear the sermon. 

My! who's that frump with frizzy hair, on 
bended knee confessing? 

That ancient gown and last year's hat have 
surely got me guessing, 

I wonder if its Betty Brown? oh no, she's wear- 
ing mourning. 

There comes old Bonds in Easter togs, his 
poorer neighbors scorning. 

I sometimes think the Devil has a mortgage on 

such sinnners, 
Tho on the turf, or trading stocks, these 

churchmen all are winners. 

[46] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

They're prospered — ah I see the eyes of widow 

Simpson streaming, 
Upon her careworn lifted face, an angel's smile 

is beaming, 

With husband gone and poverty to fight from 

day to day, 
I wonder that she has the heart to praise the 

Lord and pray. 
Yet there she sits unconscious of the wealth and 

style about her ; 
Tho if she'd rise and say ''I'm saved," I'm sure 

no one would doubt her, 

Perhaps she sees a vision — but what nonsense 

am I thinking ? 
My Lord! there's Smithers, just divorced, at 

Mrs. Hightop winking, 
What scandal! here in Nabob Church, where 

cultured folk assemble. 
My anger fairly makes the plumes upon my 

bonnet tremble. 

What is the number of this hymn? oh yes, the 

offertory. 
On such sweet strains my soul could waft to 

everlasting glory. 

[47] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

That vestryman in stylish togs, who's passing 

round the platter, 
Was once an old sweetheart of mine, who well 

knew how to flatter. 

But I was handsome then — who knows, I still 

may get his money. 
And give his wife a grand surprise, now 

wouldn't that be funny? 
My! but I'm sleepy, that old gump will never 

cease his talking, 
However, many folks I see are at my bonnet 

gawking. 

These sordid minds should turn from sin and 

weigh the helpful text. 
If they would fight this frowning world, and 

safely win the next. 
The closing hymn — here John, wake up and sing 

this old selection, 
Awake my Soul Stretch Every Nerve, — and 

then the benediction. 

But in a dream that afternoon, I had a revela- 
tion. 

Beside the Gates Of Life we stood — that morn- 
ing congregation, 

[48] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

The rich, the poor were clad alike, aristocrat 

and lowly ; 
When thro the crowd a woman passed, with 

face serene and holy. 

St. Peter smiled, and caught her hand and led 

her thro the portal. 
The widow with the angel face had passed to 

scenes immortal. 
Then suddenly the Gate was closed, and all 

who stood outside 
Were wondering if so grand a place to us could 

be denied. 

With sickening fear our souls were seized lest 

by misapprobation 
The King within might us deny some lofty 

place or station, 
When at the Wicket there appeared an Angel 

with a Book, 
Whereon the eyes of sinful men, nor angels may 

not look. 

"The Record shows," the Angel cried, ''that 

much to you was given. 
While others toiled thro sacrifice to win a 

crown in Heaven." 

[49] 



THE HARP OP LIFE 

Then turning to St. Peter said, in solemn tones 

and slow, 
''Just phone for Satan's limousine, and send 

this crowd BELOW." 



[SO] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



Because 

Because I have known your love dear, 
The flame of its hidden fire ; 
The pulse of my life beats high dear, 
With the warmth of a new desire. 

Because I have known your will dear, 
Your dreams of a sunlit crest ; 
I '11 strive through the years to give you 
The Joy of your soul's request. 

Because I have known your kiss dear. 
The throb of your heart into mine, 
I've looked from heights of delight dear, 
Down into depths divine. 

Because I have known you, love you. 
The love of my life aspires 
To live for you, be to you, give you. 
All that your heart desires. 



[SI] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Hollywood 

(Richmond, Virginia) 

Hollywood, thine open portal ushers men to 

dreamless rest. 
Infant babes, and grandsires hoary, find a 

lodgment in thy breast, 
Thou a silent city peopled by the hosts of 

human kind. 
Men of every creed and station, in thy halls a 

dwelling find. 

O^er thy terraced slopes and valleys, spreads 
the shade of mighty trees. 

Columbine and trailing myrtle waft their in- 
cense on the breeze. 

Here the ever-living holly flanks the outer City 
wall ; 

Shading parapet and coping where the ivy ten- 
drils fall. 

Deep within thy vale embosomed, smiles a 

crystal lake serene. 
Waving grasses sweep its margin with their 

nodding plumes of green. 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Hollywood, thy sylvan beauty woos the heart 

from grief and tears; 
Like a garden, trimmed and blooming, every 

lovely plot appears. 

Here the willow, lowly bending, shelters some 

sequestered square, 
Here the rose in rich profusion breathes its 

fragrance on the air, 
Here no jarring notes nor clamor ere disturb 

the deep repose. 
Singing birds, with reverent voices, chant their 

hymns at evening's close. 

Through thy shaded aisles and holy, daily 

moves a solemn train. 
Some to bells that toll of anguish, others to the 

martial strain, 
From the humble home and mansion, come they 

to their earthly bed ; 
''Dust to dust," the good night spoken over 

every coffined head. 

Here the mother leaves her baby safe within the 

warm earth's breast. 
Here the widowed ones and lonely find forget- 

fulness and rest. 

[53] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Wealth and Pride in peaceful slumber dream no 

more of place nor gain ; 
Here the poor, with prayers unanswered, find 

release from want and pain. 

Here the artist, soldier, statesman, heirs alike 
to deathless fame, 

Find the myrtle and the cypress wreathe at last 
an honored name, 

Ours the trust, their sacred stories, love pre- 
serves from age to age ; 

Chambered in the heart's recesses, rests each 
hallowed, tear dimmed page. 

Unseen hosts have thee in keeping, lovely City 

Of The Dead; 
Spirit eyes from heights immortal guard each 

lowly, narrow bed. 
Faith and Hope illume thy portals, speak our 

loved ones glad release ; 
While the winds above them sighing whisper 

peace, eternal peace. 



[S4] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



Those Kids of Mine 

Once Fortune took my hand to see 

My various lines of destiny, 

And as my palm she closely read,^ 

She smiling cried, "You're soon to wed!" 

''For you I see domestic life, 
A gallant man and you his wife ; 
A little home, where song and cheer 
With love, will crown the passing year." 

''Your horoscope reveals to me 

Maternal Joys as you shall see. 

Two kids — a lively, healthy pair. 

With cheeks of bloom and sun-kissed hair." 

To show the truth of palmistry, 
Man, house and kids were sent to me. 
And on the screen of life unrolled, 
I read the tale as Fortune told. 

Those kids — the subject of my song. 
Were mixtures of delight and wrong; 
Despite advice, their one intent 
Was glad good times, and that hell bent. 

[55] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

With garments rent and tousled hair, 
They 'd split the wind in foul or fair 
To undo something Care had done, 
Then hide and giggle at the fun. 

They scorned the precepts I adored; 
Scoffed Wisdom's rules with one accord, 
Defied the rod, and social creed, 
They were the devil 's own indeed. 

At school they seemed quite out of place. 
Nor sought to strike a winning pace, 
With mischief they were right in touch. 
Nor did their teachers praise them much. 

My training seemed amiss, in vain. 
Against such recreant high disdain 
I viewed my job a failure sure, 
A grief I scarce could well endure. 

But Time 's great tides which bear us on. 
With undercurrents sometimes run. 
Who sets in view each mighty force. 
Alike can see the end and source. 

The fires which moved those kids of mine 
To daring deeds on danger's line, 

[56] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Have led their feet in later years 

To peaks sun-crowned, where Joy appears. 

Full-statured now and strong they stand, 
With faculties in full command. 
As up the steeps of life they climb, 
Where honors wait their fuller prime. 

Their energies and talents show 

The ways that love would have them go. 

And eagerly for them I wait 

The forward swing of fortune 's gate. 

At eventide I am imbued 

With sense of Joy and gratitude 

To Him who gave — as stars come out — 

For kids I well may brag about. 



[57] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



Country Folk 

I like the ways o ' country folk, 

So hearty-like and free ; 

Their sunny smiles and cordial grasps 

Somehow just ketches me. 

Their brimmin ' o 'er with life and health, 

And soulful energy ; 

With busy hands and clever wits 

Attuned to industry. 

They keep in vital touch with life, 
With wholesome things and true ; 
They understand our daily needs. 
And know Just what to do. 
Their lovin' hearts and helpin' hands 
In Joy or deep distress. 
Just overflow with kindly deeds. 
And friendly tenderness. 

They have a takin' sort o' way 
Of doin' things worth while. 
When you're alone, need cheerin' up, 
They'll come and set awhile, 

[58] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

And like as not, if f eelin ' ill 

And in the doctors care ; 

They'll send a dainty, garnished tray, 

With choicest country fare. 

They have a style that's all their own 

Enhanced by rustic graces. 

The sunny smile of toil 's reward 

Illumes their honest faces. 

They have a stock of common sense, 

For tried and proven worth 

Beats all the scientific bosh 

That circumscribes the earth. 

When comes the merry shuckin' time, 
With neighbors gathered round ; 
And deep within the golden pile 
A crimson ear is found ; 
The lucky lad and blushin' lass, 
At Cupid's bold suggestion. 
Exchange a kiss and settle there 
The matrimonial question. 

When Autumn-time has given place 
To Winter's frosty cheer; 
When round the hearth and at the board 
The farmer-folk appear, 

[59] 



THE HARP OP LIFE 

They've got the best the earth affords, 
Good health, abundant livin', 
With minds content, and hearts that trust 
The God that rules the heavens. 



1.60] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



Supper Time at Home 

When the evening shadows deepen 
Into dusk beneath the trees, 
And the bells of herded cattle 
Tinkle softly on the breeze ; 
When the plowman turns his horses 
From the furrow in the loam, 
'Tis the time a fellow's gladdest, 
For its supper-time at home. 

With the duties and the worries 
Of the work-a-day all past ; 
As you sit and rest reflecting 
While the sunset splendors last, 
There will steal upon your spirits 
New contentment with your lot ; 
Make the farmhouse seem a mansion 
In a fairy garden spot. 

As the Mother singing hurries 
From the table to the stove ; 
And you catch the tempting odors 
Of the food you dearly love, 

[6i] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

In the plate of golden biscuits, 
And the chicken's fragrant steam; 
Hungry eyes will read fulfillment, 
Of the toiler's evening dream. 

When they've brought the cream and butter 

From the spring house in the deil, 

And the lamp is on the table 

"With its cheery, homey spell ; 

As the children take their places, 

Happy from their evening play, 

'Tis a picture you'll remember, 

'Tis the crov^ning hour of day. 

Then a hush, as hearts are lifted 
To the Gracious God above ; 
For the blessings shov^ered upon them, 
Through His daily care and love. 
As the twilight shadows gather. 
And the stars peep through the dome ; 
'Tis a sight to greet the Angels, 
When its supper time at home. 



[62] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



Woman's Smile 

It is the charm of charms to him 

Who holds a woman dear, 
Its value more than fortune's gifts 

Or thousands won a year. 

It lends her manners new delight 

Her weaknesses a shield, 
Her speaking eyes a light more bright 

Than midnight stars may yield. 

Her tenderest smile can plead the cause 

Her suppliant lips forbear, 
Can win the words of high decree 

For Heaven or despair. 

It is her silent yes or no, 

To him who would discover 
The path her timid feet would take 

With some accepted lover. 

When deep emotions stir her soul 

And crowd to be expressed 
The tearful smile which lights her eyes 

Will tell her story best. 

[63] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

As spans the rainbow on the clouds^ 
When threatening storms are o 'er, 

So lights the clouded scenes of life 
The smile all men adore. 



164] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



Honni Soit Qui Maly Pense 

Do you wonder I loved him, or ever my pen 
Should paint him a hero, or prince among men ? 
When thrown on the world, without knowledge 

and poor, 
Fate cast me a stranger one night at his door. 

'Twas during the blast of a midwinter storm, 
When penniless, naked, my shivering form 
In helpless dependence was laid on his bed ; 
A charge on his bounty for raiment and bread. 

Do you wonder I trusted the whole hearted 

care. 
Or Joyed in the comforts which waited me 

there, 
When couched by his fireside, and idly at ease, 
I fed of such pleasures my fancy should please? 

Do you wonder I ask you when nameless that I 
Should yield to the lover-like smile of his eye; 
Or willingly rest in his warm circling arms. 
The sport of his fancy, a prey to his charms? 

[65] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Was it wrong he should kiss me and call me his 

own, 
When curtained at twilight we two were alone t 
To share in the pleasures affection inspires 
And I the new theme of his dreams and desires. 

But love's fond illusions are never to stay. 
They pass like the blossoms which bloom for a 

day; 
Whose beauty and perfume but gladden the 

hour 
To brighten and fade, like the tints of the 
flower. 

The man who had entered my heart and my life, 
Was wed to another — a sweet, trusting wife 
Adored him as I did, as all women do 
The men whom they honestly think to be true ; 

Nor guessed that her husband in under hand 

part 
Permitted a rival to enter his heart. 
But was he the sinner my story implies, 
Whose language and smiles were a series of 

lies? 

[66] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

no ! he was all that is honest and sweet. 
A man in whom Virtue and chivalry meet ; 
With will that could triumph o'er everything 

bad, 
The lover I sing of— MY OWN GALLANT 

DAD. 



[67] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



O Tide of the Years! 

Backward, turn backward, O tide of the years ! 
Turn to the era where woman appears, 
Living her life with a sensible view ; 
Just as her Maker intended her to. 

Something is wrong with the girls of to-day, 
Restless and roaming, a traveling array, 
Rouge-tinted creatures in veilings and lace ; 
Faces and figures sans feminine grace. 

Bring back the woman whose charms are her 

own. 
Fashioned and tinted by Nature alone. 
Healthy and merry, who guiltless of artj 
Captures the fancy and gladdens the heart. 

Gone from the scenes of the country and towns, 
The strong, ruddy lassies in fresh muslin 

gowns. 
With picturesque hats made of ribbons and lace, 
Coquettishly shading a beautiful face. 

where are the home-loving women of yore ! 
The mothers, the sweethearts we used to adore, 

[68] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Whose ideals of living and womanly grace, 
Could make of a cottage a glorified place, 

Who valued the things that are finest in life, 
The Womanly virtues in maiden or wife, 
tide of the years give us back our desire ! 
A mother, a sweetheart to love and admire. 



[69] 



THE HARP OP LIFE 



Bereavement 

Heart of mine ! how still you lie to-night. 
With placid brow upturned, so smooth and 

white. 
The yesterday of time for thee is past, 
Its friendships and its tears are o 'er ; at last 
You stand beyond the boundary and see 
The unveiled wonders of Eternity. 
For thee no more death's pangs, or dreaded 

woes; 
God's peace enfolds thy couch of deep repose. 

Here by your side, within the shadows gray, 

1 count anew the Joys that made my day 

Of life so sweet ; the smiles, the songs of cheer, 
The love on which I leaned each passing year. 
Could I but live one day with thee, 
How I would grasp the opportunity 
To speak the word of praise, approval due 
The many acts of thine, would strive anew 
To make the measure of thy Joys complete. 
The path a smoother way for those dear feet. 

[70] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Could I but pierce the veil to-night and reach 
Your listening ear with tender yearning speech, 
This heart would bound to speak the loving 

words, 
More musical to thee than Heavenly chords. 
How deep the hush, the loneliness I feel 
As here beside your pulseless form I kneel ; 
Knowing the charm of life forever fled. 
That I must walk alone, uncomforted. 
In that bright world beyond how blest thy lot! 
Henceforth these once loved scenes, a desert 

spot. 

Broken the heart that takes its leave of thee, 
The last long look ; — yet ere mortality 
Shall tinge with deeper shade the lips, the eye 
That speak so tenderly their last good bye. 
Ere silence of the dismal yawning tomb 
Engulfs my all, or ere the roses bloom 
Shall breath its dying fragrance o'er thy head. 
And thou art numbered with the dreamless 

dead, 
It seems your voice must answer to my call. 
Your hand reach out to mine beneath the pall. 
And draw me once again unto the breast 
Where oft this head has lain in blissful rest, 

[71] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

But no — my dream of life is past, in vain 
I call to thee to sooth the poignant pain 
Which numbs the heart with its great agony, 
Be kind O God and lift the veil for me ! 
I'll question not Thy love nor righteous will, 
If this one prayer Thou grant, desire fulfil. 
Give me to know ere dawn's returning light 
My soul, transported, lives with her to-night. 



[72] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



Christmas Eve at Home 

Arrayed in royal ermine, the earth is fair to- 
night, 

New-cloaked in Winter Vestnre, of soft and 
lustrous white. 

All day the busy snowflakes have mantled roof 
and tower. 

And hung with glistening garlands, each tree 
and leafless bower. 

The summer rose is shrouded in pall of snow 

and sleet ; 
Like pulseless forms of loved ones beneath the 

winding sheet. 
In silence closely hooded, loom distant peaks of 

blue, 
While vales and hills are spotless in garments 

soft as dew. 

Across the snow the pine trees fantastic 

shadows throw. 
And sigh in mournful cadence to hear the 

Northwinds blow. 

[73] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Above the storm-swept heavens the stars with 

glory gleam, 
Bright worlds commemorating the Orb of 

Sacred Beam, 

From yonder tower illumined, the Christmas 

Joy-bells ring, 
While fuller swell the anthems the little choir 

boys sing. 
The world is meet for Christmas, and peace and 

love again. 
Fall like a benediction upon the hearts of men. 

Within, the yule log blazes upon the homestead 

hearth. 
While children's voices mingle in festive song 

and mirth, 
The mistletoe and holly, with gay festoon of 

green. 
On chandelier and doorway, enhance the 

Christmas scene. 

While proud within the corner a fragrant cedar 

stands. 
Awaiting globe and tinsel, and snowy pop-corn 

strands. 

[74] 



TkE HARP OF LIFE 

By nine its magic beauty will gleam from crown 

to base, 
Bring shouts of admiration and smiles to every 

face. 

The time for Santa's coming, the mystic hour 

draws nigh, 
When hearts with Joy are swelling and pulses 

beating high. 
Each head is filled with wonder at what the 

night will bring, 
For Santa, sleigh and coursers are on the 

Christmas wing. 

As older hearts expectant with anxious Joy 

await 
The swinging of some portal that ushers 

brighter fate, 
So children watch and listen without the mystic 

door, 
That bars a glimpse of Santa and all his 

treasure store. 

From far is borne the music of sleigh-bells ring- 
ing clear. 

The children pause, and listen, then shout in 
Joy — "reindeer!" 

[75] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

As to my side they scamper in ecstasy of glee, 
Each one in frantic hurry to climb upon my 
knee. 

With outstretched arms I gather the cluster to 
my breast, 

And smiling at the idea the childish lips ex- 
pressed, 

I head the happy marchers who up the stairway 
go 

Each brain awhirl with Santa, the reindeer and 
the snow. 

When snugly tucked, I leave them to dream of 
Christmas day. 

The toys the Magic Giver will spread in bright 
array, 

Each in its festive glory beneath the Christmas 
tree. 

To wait the shining faces and shouts of Christ- 
mas glee. 

With thoughts upon the children and all that 

makes life dear, 
I seek the flickering firelight where phantom 

forms appear, 

[76] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

And there within the twilight, where shadows 

come and go 
I dream of absent faces, and days of long ago. 

From out the dusk a homestead shines forth 
with windows bright. 

Adorned with Christmas garlands, ashine with 
candle light, 

It beams with olden welcome to each familiar 
guest 

Who homeward turns for Christmas, for happi- 
ness and rest. 

And there within the doorway a mother's face 

appears. 
With outstretched arms she greets us as in the 

bygone years, 
Again we're little children who throng the dear 

old home. 
With doll and sled and dishes, with horn and 

martial drum. 

About the blazing fireside a little group I see. 
Who nestle close in silence, with elbows on her 
knee, 

[77] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

To hear about the Christ-child who in a manger 

lay, 
While angels sang hozannas for earth's first 

Christmas day. 

Assembled there in spirit, the generations meet, 
The grandsire, youth and infant who make the 

scene complete. 
As round the dinner table we take accustomed 

place; 
Unmingled Joy reflected upon each smiling 

face. 

'Tis Christmas home with mother, with all the 

charms of old. 
'Tis Christmas with the loved-ones, endeared by 

ties of gold. 
Ere fades the happy vision, with wreaths and 

tapers bright, 
The heart reviews the picture aglow with love 

and light; 

And looks beyond life's shadows, to home be- 
yond the sky, 

The house of many mansions prepared for all on 
high ; 

[78] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Where raptured hearts united shall speed the 

seasons roll, 
While Joy will flood forever the gateway of the 

soul. 



[79] 



THE HARP OP LIFE 



When Daddy Had to Cook 

When mother left for grandma's house 

To spend a short vacation, 
Our trusty cook was on the job 

To meet the situation. 
Without a qualm or other fear 

My daddy dear and me 
Were Just as happy keeping house 

As any pair you see. 

When much to our surprise one morn 

The cook did not appear, 
The dusky maid who 'd fixed our meals 

For more than half a year. 
I flew to daddy's room in haste 

To tell the situation; 
That message filled his heart and mine 

With wildest consternation. 

He leaped from out that poster-bed 
Like some mad beast of prey ; 

And doffed his pink pajamas 
In a most informal way. 

[80] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

He neither shaved, nor brushed his hair, 
Nor washed his hands and face 

The way he talked the while he dressed, 
Was positive disgrace. 

With durns and damns he buttoned on 

His collar and his vest, 
Then to that sulking kitchen fire, 

He said the shocking rest. 
But when that stove began to roar, 

The kettle hum and sing ; 
He smiled at me and said, ''My child, 

We '11 have a feast, by Jing. ' ' 

''I'll cook the coffee, ham and eggs 

While you arrange the table ; 
The treat we '11 have will rival that 

In Mido's glowing fable. 
So cheer up lassie, get the plates 

And set the board for two ; 
We know enough of keeping house 

To see the problem through. ' ' 

With willing hands I set to work, 
As hopes rose high and higher. 

When from that kitchen came a yell 
Of fire ! fire !! fire !! ! 

[8i] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

It chilled the blood within my veins, 

I reeled against the wall ; 
As through the door the belching smoke 

Confirmed the frantic call. 

I dashed in on that frightful scene 

To see my father lying 
Unconscious near that roaring stove, 

Whereon the ham was frying. 
The flames had caught the smoking fat 

And played in wild gyration 
Above that morning feast of ours, 

With reckless dissipation. 

Our eggs were cinders in the pan, 

The coffee sputtered o 'er ; 
But what of him — my hero dad, 

Unconscious on the floor ! 
With eyebrows singed, and whiskers scorched, 

And blisters big as peas ; 
With dabs of flour and spots of grease 

From neck-tie to his knees. 

Revived, I helped him to his bed. 

And called a doctor quick. 
My blackened, scorched and blistered dad, 

Was not pretending sick. 

(82] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

And when his wounds were softly dressed, 

He said to me, *'My daughter, 
Till Mamma comes I fear that we 

Must live on bread and water. " 

Next morning in the Times appeared 

This self-explaining ad. 
A cook is wanted at Judge Smith 's, 

And wanted very bad. 
No questions asked, just so she cooks, 

And comes prepared to stay ; 
The best the place affords is hers. 

With most substantial pay. 

That night, when mother reached the house, 

In answer to my call. 
To satisfy her anxious thought 

I had to tell her all, 
She hugged me close and wept a bit, 

As she did daddy too. 
Then smiling said, ' ' Cheer up my dears. 

The sun is peeping through.'' 

''For breakfast you'll have ham and eggs," 

And then with teasing look 
She turned to dad and said "my love 

Who taught you how to cook?" 

[83] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

"For never in our married life 
Have you essayed the question 

Of dietetics quickly solved, 
Save by a good digestion." 

Well, one thing's sure, whatever comes, 

And mother's gone away; 
I '11 fly the coop with rod and reel, 

And spend a peaceful day 
In some lone spot beside a stream, 

Or in some mountain nook ; 
If Bridget quits the job again. 

And daddy has to cook. 



[84] 



THE HARP OP LIFE 



There is a Life That Has No Death 

There is a life that has no death, 

Beyond time's mystic portal. 
Where we shall wake to scenes of light, 

With youth and health immortal. 
A life undimmed by falling tears, 

Or pangs of mortal sorrow ; 
Where pall, nor cloud, nor midnight gloom 

Will overcast to-morrow. 

A clime where beauteous flowers no more 

To chilling winds surrender. 
Where summer suns on landscapes fair. 

Shine with unclouded splendor. 
Where birds no more forsake their nests 

In wearisome transition; 
But build in trees of living green, 

Which yield a rich fruition. 

There is a land where we shall find 

The soul's sure habitation. 
Where home's sweet songs will thrill the heart 

With rapturous exaltation, 

[85] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Where with the loved we mourned awhile 

We '11 live in Joyous union, 
With Him, the Pure, the Glorified, 

In Heavenly communion, 

A home in which our work shall be 

Enhanced by sacred duty. 
Where love shall find its recompense. 

And hope its crown of beauty, 
A life where love 's unfinished tasks 

Will greet our new endeavor. 
Where dreams shall live in structures fair, 

Forever and forever. 

sinless life that has no death, 

clime of fadeless glory ! 
changeless home where hearts shall sing 

Love 's ever-living story ! 
Rejoice, Soul, in Him, thy light. 

Who crowns thy high endeavor. 
With life and love and happiness, 

Forever and forever! 



[86] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



Learn to Laugh 

Learn to laugh, it is lifers elixir, 

Building body, soul, and brain. 
Leads our feet to mounts of pleasure, 

Far from vales of care and pain, 
Laughter fills the heart with sunshine, 

Clears the mind of doubts and fears, 
Brings forgetfulness of sorrow. 

Shows a rainbow thro our tears. 

Learn to laugh, it is sweetest music 

To the ear of him who strives. 
In life's dismal, dusty places. 

For support of other lives. 
From the fount of glad emotions. 

Thro the trying days and drear, 
Let its overflowing sweetness. 

Fill his soul with crystal cheer. 

Learn to laugh, its magic power 
Kindles, strengthens, beautifies, 

All the toil and aspirations 

Underneath lifers changing skies. 

[87] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Gives us riches more than millions, 
Tints our dreams with gold and rose ; 

Brightens, blesses all life 's channels 
Where its silver current flows. 



[88] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



When the Table is Set For Two 

Two lovers they in a new-found home, 

With dreams of the coming years. - 
In the tender light of their smiling eyes, 

A world-old Joy appears. 
The shaded lamp on the damask white 

Gleams soft on the silver new, 
As hand seeks hand in lingering clasp. 

Where the table is set for two. 

With the added years were the added leaves, 

Till the ends seemed far apart. 
But the added face was an added Joy 

To broaden and bind each heart. 
Then the evening lamp with its mellow glow 

Shone soft as a light from Heaven, 
On the happy pair with their group of five, 

When the table was set for seven. 

But the leaves are stored in the attic now ; 

The children of love have flown 
And the aged pair by the evening lamp 

Are sitting to-night alone. 

[89] 



THE HARP OP LIFE 

But hand seeks hand with a tenderer touch 
As stars shine forth in the blue, 

And they speak in tears of the bygone years, 
When the table is SET FOR TWO. 



[90] 



THE HARP OP LIFE 



To a Musician 

Within this quiet room once melodies 

From raptured fingers woke these silent keys. 

Wliose soothing tones oft charmed the listening 

ear 
With softly rippling music, sweet and clear. 
Here vibrant beauty caught the blush of morn ; 
The promise of delightsome years unborn. 
This instrument was vocal with delight 
When children tripped this floor with footsteps 

light; 
When older hearts held carnival of Joy 
In masquerade, Deception's liveried toy, 
Then Pleasure on these keys held merry din. 
While mirth encircled happy hearts within. 

In twilight hours, ere Night unveiled the sky, 
These keys oft crooned some tender lullaby ; 
Breathed songs of love and rest, and homely 

cheer ; 
Endeared the hearts which make the home 

hearth dear. 
Her Hope envisioned years on pinions soared 
To those far heights where effort finds reward. 

[91] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Where merit shares with truth unstained re- 
nown, 
And Honor humbly bows to meet its crown. 

These pulseless chords have uttered Sorrows' 

woe; 
The pain of wounds that only great souls know 
Spoke tender sympathies which stirred within, 
Make all mankind in suffering akin. 
Here artist touch has waked immortal strains 
Which distant years will echo in refrains 
From hearts which drink of hidden founts and 

clear, 
Which breath delights of higher atmosphere. 

Here thund'rous tones have sounded ocean's 

roar; 
The mighty surge which beats the rock ribbed 

shore. 
The tempest's flash across the midnight cloud, 
The deafening charge of combat long and loud, 
Here sunshine too like molten gold has shone 
When storms were o'er; when peaks stood out 

alone 
Against a windswept, radiant, sapphire sky ; 
When Earth smiled back the beauty framed on 

high. 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

When genius thrilled with fire these answering 

keys, 
Overflowed this room with matchless har- 
monies ; 
The feathered songsters passing paused to hear 
The silvery notes, divinely soft and clear 
The evening breeze awoke with drowsy call, 
Stole down the dell by tinkling waterfall — 
Upon her breath the musk of mignonette, 
To catch the spell, ere evening star was set. 
Then Night her silver sifted down the sky 
From urns of light ; and twinkling stars on high 
Came out to hear the concord like a paean melt 

away ; 
As sunset hues dissolve at close of day. 

folded hands, in mouldering darkness hid! 
Beneath the flowers, the earth pressed casket 

lid 
Life's sun was quenched in shades of deepest 

night 
When swung for you the gates on scenes of 

light! 
Somewhere, in all that bright Celestial throng. 
With bards, you move the Heavenly choir 

among ; 

[93] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Where harp and harpist with immortal fire 
Interpret joy and peace; the soul's supreme 

desire ; 
Where life undimmed, to strains divinely pure, 
With love reclaimed, forever shall endure. 



[94} 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



When the Autumn Days Are Here 

Summer lives in song and story as the fruitful, 

flowery time, 
When all Nature's clad in glory, and a bubblin* 

o'er with rhyme. 
But to me the best o' season's when October's 

drawin' near, 
When the golden grain is garnered, and the 

Autumn days are here. 

Then the air is keen and bracin' when you wake 

up in the morn ; 
Feelin' like a stag defiant when he hears the 

hunter's horn. 
Every nerve with life is tinglin' as you button 

coat and vest ; 
Bound the stairs to drink the sunshine with an 

early mornin' zest, 

How you hurry round the farmhouse, eager for 

the early chore, 
Take the pails that stand ashinin' on the shelf 

beside the door; 

[95] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Answer to old Brindle's lowin' in a way that 

makes you think, 
YouVe imbibed a nip o' toddy, or some other 

cheerin' drink. 

Milkin' done, you seek the kitchen, where the 

breakfast steamin' hot, 
Blends the country ham and waffles with the 

fragrant coffee pot. 
With an appetite surprisin', and a soul as full o' 

cheer, 
As the lusty, frosty mornin' of the season o' the 

year. 

Then with gun you go a hunting far along the 

wooded vale. 
Seek the copse where hides the pheasant, haunt 

the covey of the quail, 
Mark the squirrels nimble footsteps as he leaps 

the branches brown, 
Huntin ' stores for winter usage where the nuts 

are droppin' down. 

Trees and vines have lately yielded up their 

fruitage fine and sweet. 
And the cellar's full to burstin' with its stores 

of things to eat. 

[96] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Shelves with rich preserves are laden, casks 

with wine are runnin' o'er; 
Bins with rosy apples shining, tempt you with 

their luscious store. 

Though the kine have left the pasture for the 

rick of ripened hay. 
And no more across the fallow call the swallow 

and the jay; 
Still a glamour seems to hover o'er the fields, 

about the lane. 
Where the harvest hands a'singin', followed 

home the laden wain. 

Rev'rently, and somewhat thoughtful you re- 
trace familiar ways, 

With perhaps a tinge of longin' for the bloom of 
summer days. 

For the romance in the arbor, hid beneath the 
roses sweet, 

For the joys that now are perished, like the 
leaves about your feet. 

Still, there comes a compensation in the thought 

that round the hearth 
You will find the richer pleasures in the hours 

of social mirth. 

[97] 



THE HARP OP LIFE 

Seated with the boon companions when the 

days are growin* chill; 
Pledgin ' friendship 's old allegiance in the cider 

from the mill. 

Nature paints no fairer picture underneath her 

azure dome, 
Than the scene about the fireside in the twilight 

hours at home. 
What to you are changin' seasons, fadin' 

blossoms, Autumn skies, 
If about a glowin' hearthstone, love has found 

its Paradise? 

Bards may sing of Spring and Summer, and of 

Winter 's frosty cheer ; 
But to me the best o' seasons, is the Autumn 

time o' year, 
When the earth and sky are blended in a mist 

' rarest gold, 
And the sweet old book of nature is a story 

nearly told. 

Then I know the grateful spirit which the Pil- 
grim Fathers felt 

When they sang their glad Thanksgivin' while 
on hallowed ground they knelt. 

[98] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

There is something soul-compellin ' in October's 

kindly cheer, 
Makes you thank the Lord you're livin' when 

the Autumn days are here. 



[99] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



Love 

Love is the great eternal pawer 

Within the human soul, 
Which drives the thoughts and acts of men 

Beyond the will's control. 

It is the heart 's dynamic fire 

Which threads its subtle course 
Along the secret wires of life, 

With mighty, tireless force. 

It moves the energies anew 

To nobler work each day ; 
Its recompense a word of cheer, 

Or smile along the way. 

It is the architect unseen 

Of fate 's mysterious plans ; 
Who builds for us a structure strong 

Beyond life's shifting sands. 

It is the path to that pure fane, 

Both human and divine, 
Where God's own hand has set alight 

The sacred taper's shine. 

[TOO] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

It is the guide to Want's retreat, 

And Sorrows dark abode. 
To lift the cross, and set a orown 

Where tears of anguish flowed. 

It is the way that Pity takes 

To find the world's distress; 
While white robed Mercy clasps her hand 

With smiles of tenderness. 

It is the Spirit ever-bright 

Which answers every call ; 
Pain's deep distress, Joy's fevered wants, 

With equal grace to all. 

It is the hidden fire within 

To purify and bless ; 
And sheds o'er Imperfection's face, 

A radiant loveliness. 

Love is a mighty, moving stream 

Whose ever-rushing tide 
Bears sin and grief upon its breast 

Out to an ocean wide. 

It is the beacon shining far 
Across life 's trackless foam ; 

[101] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

A chart and compass ever true 
Where'er our sail may roam, 

It is the star that points the way 
'er moors of doubt and strife ; 

And safely leads our stumbling feet 
To higher plains of life. 

It is the joy of that dear spot 
Where faults are all forgiven. 

Its glory lights its humblest room, 
And makes our home a Heaven. 

It is the language of the heart, 
The warmth of friendship 's hand ; 

The magic light of smiling eyes, 
Whose speech we understand. 

It is the blush on beauty's cheek, 
The glow in beauty 's eye ; 

The tear which trembles on her lash. 
Where hidden fountains lie. 

It is the artist's haunting dream. 
The theme of poet's rhyme, 

The charm of music's melting note 
Of melodies sublime. 

[102] 



THE HAHP OF LIFE 

It is the vision shining fair 

Thro aisles of happy rest. 
Which pictures every dream fulfilled 

Unto the lover's breast. 

It is the music of the world, 

Which onward leads thro strife; 

As swells from out the victors* heart 
The triumph-song of life. 

Love ! of every life the way 

That human feet have trod, 
The light, the power in earth and Heaven, 

That leads us up to God. 



[103] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



To Courtney 

Do I love you little maiden 
With a heart so warm and true ? 
In your eyes of sparkling beauty 
Shines my heaven of azure blue, 
What are seashells, damask roses 
To thy soft cheek's blooming tinge? 
What are hanging clouds at sunset 
To thine eyelid 's silken fringe ? 

You are dearer than the life blood 

Surging thro this constant heart, 

Not a joy that cheers its vision 

But your face has central part. 

Love that hopes, endures, and braves all 

Garners every good for you. 

That your heart may know the gladness 

Of your dearest dreams come true. 



[104] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



The Empty Cradle 

The moonbeams kiss with lingering touch to- 
night 

An empty crib ; whose little pillow soft and 
white, 

Still holds the imprint of a sunny head ; 

Which lately woke with smiles within this bed. 

Like grieving bird above an empty nest, 

With fledgling flown; the brooding mother- 
breast 

Still j^earns the touch of fluttering pinions 
warm; 

The nestling head tucked close from all alarm. 

Did I detect those covers lightly stir. 
Or see the dimpled, waving hands of her 
In beckoning call? or did an angel wing 
Bend low, my baby's Heaven-born smile to 
bring ? 

little empty cradle, soft and white ! 
You too will go beyond my touch and sight ; 
But like the new-made bed on yonder hill, 
My aching heart will bend above you still. 

[105] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



My Reward 

With song I've wrought the daily tasks 
With needle, cloth, and broom, 

The little house in order set, 
Smiles fair from room to room. 

The supper hints of hidden treats 

To tempt his appetite ; 
The table shines with snowy cloth, 

And silver burnished bright. 

At window sill I wait his step 

As sunset fires grow dim; 
And all because his smile will say, 

I 'm all the world to him. 



[io6] 



THE HARP OF' LIFE 



Sunset 

The day had closed in beauty, 

When up the flaming West 
Loomed towers of glittering splendor 

Above the mountain's crest. 
Each gleaming wall of Jasper 

Reflected far the tinge 
Of fleecy clouds new-woven, 

Which hung as some soft fringe. 
While folds of ruby velvet 

Draped low the Eastern sky; 
As tho to veil the glory 

That soon would rise on high. 

Athwart the shining heavens 

Of rose and burnished gold, 
Were bands of sapphire blended 

With crimson lace unrolled. 
AVhile scintillating jewels 

Decked each window-pane, 
Illumed the spire with glory 

Above God's holy fane, 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

It seemed as though an Angel 
Had caught my wish afar, 

And passing thro the portals, 
Had left the gates ajar. 



[108] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



The Peaks of Otter 

mighty Peaks of mystic blue, 

Upraised to heights of glory! . 
The morning stars thy birthday hymned, 

When rang Creation's story. 
A mighty temple, granite strong, 

Thy Builder's thought impressing, 
Enduring speaks from age to age, 

Eternal truths expressing. 

When blazing worlds took glorious form 

From out His contemplation ; 
High 'er thy lofty spires they shone. 

In matchless constellation. 
When from the dark abyss of space 

New forms the void supplanted ; 
God gave thee favored place, great Mount, 

Amid green groves enchanted. 

Thy sacred annals, deathless name, 

Virgina's proud possession! 
Virginian tongues thy praise will wreathe, 

With eloquent expression. 

[109] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

While from the South, the West, the North, 

The traveler seeks thy glory, 
He 11 twine with Old Dominion fame 

Thy ever-living story ! 

Sublime the heights where vistas spread. 

The dim horizon cleaving ! 
Deep emerald vales, rich sapphire hills, 

Tyrolean beauty weaving ! 
The spreading plains, the changing skies 

Are mines of inspiration ; 
Uplifting thought to Nature's God, 

On wings of exaltation. 

Here forest choirs in chorus chant 

Sweet songs of pure elation. 
As thro thy cloistered aisles they move 

To shrines of adoration, 
The main lay, the vesper hymn, 

From raptured hearts upwelling, 
Are borne in cadence on the breeze, 

In joyous music swelling. 

Before thy face the season's roll. 

As sweep the tides of ocean. 
Time 's ever-changing scenes to thee, 

But pageantry in motion. 

[no] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

The lives of men as fleeting clouds, 
Wind-blown twixt love and duty ; 

As transient as the forest leaves, 
Or summer rainbow's beauty, 

Thy placid mien, paternal Mount, 

Rebukes man's strife and worry! 
Whose span is as an hour to thee, 

Illspent in anxious hurry, 
Thy solemn silence woos his heart 

From scenes of toilsome fretting, 
Thy peace instructs his weary soul, 

In science of forgetting, 

Above thy head the storm-clouds sweep, 

Destructive combat waging ! 
Across thy breast the lightning leaps, 

Like fiery billows raging ! 
Yet on thy ever-youthful face, 

The tempest leaves no changes; 
Serene you stand, defying shock. 

Amid surrounding ranges ! 

At dawn thy beauteous face reflects 
The crimson tints of morning. 

Proud noonday sets her coronet 
Thy kingly head adorning. 

[Ill] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

When to the glow of western skies, 

The god of day surrenders; 
Thy summits flame with radiant fires, 

Entrancing sunset splendors! 

When evening sooths to charmed repose 

The world for dreamless slumber ; 
She sets on high her vigil lamps. 

In glittering, glorious number. 
The peerless moon, the blazing stars, 

Come forth to tell Nights story; 
And set above thy regal brow 

A diadem of glory. 



[112] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 



The Unseen 

In the soft gray hush of evening, 
When cares of the day are done : 

And noise of the world about me 
Has lulled with the setting sun ; 

I see in the gathering shadows, 
Faces of those I have missed 

Long years from their wonted places, 
Where gently the dear feet pressed. 

And voices long hushed to music 
And mirth of the earthly song ; 

Are borne on the throbbing silence, 
As notes in the distance rung. 

While in thro deepening shadows. 
Streams light of supernal ray ; 

Revealing a spirit convoy 
Descending the shining way. 

They bring to the waiting spirit 
A peace that is half divine. 

As in thro the heart's high portal, 
They pass to the inner shrine, 

[113] 



THE HARP OF LIFE 

Loved hands light the altar tapers 

Which long have been shadowed in gloom; 
Set memory's censer swinging, 

Exhaling a rich perfume. 

Waking the chambered silence 

To melodies low and sweet, 
Pulsing in rythmic measure, 

To steps of the angel feet, 

They chant as a choir celestial 

Around the chancel of light. 
Their faces aglow with rapture, 

All vested in spotless white. 

They sing of a realm unclouded, 

With happy release from pain. 
Of conflicts and sorrows ended, 

Of love and eternal gain, 

Gone are the twilight shadows, 
And cares which oppressed me low 

My soul follows after them singing. 
As down thro the aisles they go. 



["4] 



r 



